-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- Top officials in Moscow have accepted a French offer to help supply the Russian navy with two new amphibious assault warships , French President Nicolas Sarkozy 's office said Friday .

The offer came from a consortium led by two French manufacturers -- DCNS and STX -- working in conjunction with Russian shipyards .

Two additional warships may be constructed , bringing the total to four , Sarkozy 's office said .

Sarkozy and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev `` welcomed the implementation of this unprecedented cooperation that will benefit the industry and employment in both countries , '' said a statement from Sarkozy 's office . It `` illustrates the willingness and ability of France and Russia develop partnerships in all major areas , including defense and security . ''

The deal will create 5 million hours of work for an estimated 1,000 people over four years around the French town of Saint-Nazaire , according to the statement .

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French-led consortium will help build at least two new Russian naval vessels

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The deal will help employ 1,000 people for four years around Saint-Nazaire , France